I have been lurking here for a long time but I figured it was time to join up and post a build thread for our new project W.A.V.E.
The Wheelchair Accessible Van for Expeditions will debut at SEMA in a couple of weeks but really it is built for us as disabled folks to help other disabled folks enjoy backcountry travel on day trips and overnight adventures.
We are an Arizona based 501c3 non-profit that is volunteer run and donation supported so don't think we are here to sell you anything
So down to the dirty details!
We are working on a new project vehicle and thought it would be interesting to document the process and our thoughts behind the choices we make.
Up until recently this was the Disabled Explorers demo rig, but not any longer. While the FJ Cruiser is a great off road machine and I have been impressed over the two years I have owned it, there are requirements that it just doesn't meet. One is payload as we tend to take alot of gear to events, presentations, gear test and general outings. Another is passenger space as we haven't been able to work with anyone in a power wheelchair or who can't boost themselves up into the rig.
So this is the blank canvas that Sportsmobile West will use to create our 4wd Wheelchair Accessible Van (WAV for short) using their proven 4x4 conversion, adding a custom interior layout that includes sink, fridge, porta-potty, stove and more. To give everyone an idea of what the end result will look like just check out Andy T's rig.
The plan calls for a wheelchair lift, tie-downs, a power drivers transfer seat and hand controls. This should give us a great platform to take almost anyone out for their first backcountry experience and since the rig has a nice sleeping setup we can offer overnight outings . I hope to post some pictures soon of the already completed 4wd conversion and the roof installation. I also hope to get out to the SMB West Fresno factory before too much longer to do work myself on the camera system, laptop mount, gps, and adding some extra insulation. But until then please enjoy some previews of the project and our reasons for the choices we are making.
